Ch. 341Mom, I'm sorry...
Plot points
- Black Zetsu lies to Naruto, claiming Sasuke used Infinite Tsukuyomi to impose a war-loving ideology on the world and make himself ruler. When Naruto challenges how he could know what happened outside their training dimensions, Zetsu invents a connection to Jiraiya: he says Jiraiya discovered Sasuke’s plans and entrusted Naruto to him so Naruto could eventually stop them.
- Though suspicious, Naruto is persuaded that Sasuke’s supposed beliefs fit his darker side. He insists they must act, but Zetsu argues that stopping Sasuke is now pointless because Sasuke has already spread his ideology through the genjutsu.
- Zetsu then presents a supposed countermeasure: Naruto can cast a “good-intent” Infinite Tsukuyomi to replace Sasuke’s influence with an ideology of peace. He claims Jiraiya left him the technique and trained Naruto for this purpose.
- Naruto, moved by the claim that Jiraiya believed him to be the world’s savior, resolves to master the technique and save Sasuke and everyone else. He chooses to return to training rather than confront Sasuke while unprepared.
- Elsewhere, Itachi opens his Six-Tomoe Rinnegan. As Obito’s Wood Dragon restrains Sasuke’s Susanoo-Tails and Obito mocks him, Sasuke signals to Itachi, then declares that the fight is about to end.
Character developments and interactions
- Black Zetsu carefully manipulates Naruto, adapting his lies when Naruto questions him. He considers pursuing his true goal of reviving his mother but decides to keep backing Naruto, believing the risk of switching sides is too great. His apparent kindness toward Naruto is part of a calculated plan.
- Naruto remains loyal to Sasuke but is vulnerable to the idea that Sasuke’s actions might fit his character. Jiraiya’s alleged faith in him deeply affects him, turning his distress into determination. He also apologizes to Zetsu for grabbing him.
- Sasuke and Itachi exchange a brief, meaningful look and nod, suggesting coordination as Sasuke prepares to act against Obito.
- Obito displays confidence and contempt, believing his restraint of Sasuke proves his superiority.
Significant themes
- Manipulation and trust: Zetsu exploits Naruto’s grief, loyalty, and faith in Jiraiya, while Naruto’s doubts show that affection alone cannot shield him from deception.
- The power of ideology: Infinite Tsukuyomi is framed as a means of shaping people’s beliefs, and Zetsu claims peace and war can be imposed through opposing uses of the same technique.
- Hope versus control: Naruto’s sincere desire to save others is redirected into Zetsu’s scheme, while the chapter ends with Sasuke apparently preparing a decisive counterattack.